DPS' Early College looks to produce next generation of medical professionals: 'Fill critical roles'
DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) -- Maverick Hospital is a healthcare training ground inside the Durham Early College of Health Sciences that exposes students to the medical industry while offering an associate's degree and potential job opportunities after graduation.
This program is funded by a $29.5 million grant from Bloomberg Philanthropies.
"I think something in the medical field is promising for me," said freshman student Conner Nguyen.
While Nguyen is unsure of what he wants to do professionally, he is certain Maverick Hospital is a good start. The program offers hands-on training sessions with medical professionals from Durham Technical Community College and the Duke University Health System.
Principal Joshua Brown can already visualize the day when these students care for him.
"Not only do I think of them as my students, but I also think of them as my future caretakers. They may be in the clinic when it comes time for me to get my healthcare needs met," said Principal Joshua Brown.
"I have to treat them right so they treat me right when I can't do for myself anymore."
Students are offered four pathways that aim to expose them to the industry. It includes surgical technology, which teaches them about sterilization and the use of instruments. Clinical research covers the topic and how it develops medication that helps save lives.
The medical assistant session shows students how to find a pulse on themselves and others. The nursing pathway shows students how to administer CPR.
"We will be able to fill some critical roles. Our goal is to hire 100 percent of the students who graduate," said Assistant Vice President of Nursing for Duke Health Sylvia Alston.
School leaders said eventually, students will have internships and apprenticeships. Alston hopes students like Nguyen take an interest in joining the healthcare field.
"I can picture myself doing this because I can care for other people very well," said Nguyen.
